A BUSKER from Wheathampstead who has dedicated forty years to raising more than £50,000 for charity has been awarded an MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

Peter Risley of Wick Avenue, has been given the prestigious award for his work with diabetes sufferers.

The 76-year-old started raising money for national charity Diabetes UK, formerly known as The British Diabetic Association, after his son Martin was diagnosed with the disease in 1968, aged 8.

Tragically Martin was killed ten years later in a fatal motorbike accident, but Mr Risley continued his generous work.

His son Tim: "He could simply have walked away after Martin's death, but he continued to raise funds.

"He's absolutely bowled over, the whole family is chuffed to bits - it's a fantastic achievement for someone like him."

Mr Risley is a well-known face within the community as he is often seen playing his organ at village fairs and other events to raise those all-important funds.

He has also set up three local branches of the charity in Enfield, St Albans and Luton to provide support and guidance to young people with the disease.

Mr Risley's wife Jeannette has also worked hard alongside her husband, supporting him in his tireless efforts of charitable fundraising.

Thier son Tim was keen to stress his mum's part in the award saying: "Mum's always been there for him."